Yuxiang Wang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuxiang Wang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuxiang Wang, Fudan University, China

Dr. Yuxiang Wang is a Principal Investigator and Ph.D. Supervisor at Fudan University, with an extensive background in molecular biology, oncology, and translational medicine. He earned his Ph.D. in Developmental and Molecular Biology from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where he worked under the mentorship of Dr. Jeffrey W. Pollard. Following this, he completed a prestigious research fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Wang has built a strong academic and clinical research portfolio, focusing on gliomas and muscular dystrophy. His work utilizes state-of-the-art preclinical models and CRISPR screening technologies to identify novel therapeutic strategies. Dr. Wang is a recipient of numerous honors, including the MSK Society Scholar Award and Shanghai Leading Overseas Talent recognition. He actively collaborates with clinicians to translate lab discoveries into patient therapies, and his prolific publication record reflects deep scientific rigor and innovation.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Research Track Record
    Dr. Wang has published in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Science Advances, Cancer Research, and PNAS. His publication record demonstrates consistency, depth, and high impact across multiple domains including glioma biology and gene therapy.

  2. Dual Research Focus
    He leads research in two distinct yet critical biomedical areas—malignant gliomas and muscular dystrophy. This breadth shows versatility and the ability to manage complex translational programs.

  3. Innovative Techniques
    Dr. Wang effectively applies CRISPR-based genetic screening, preclinical mouse models, and patient-derived cell lines—cutting-edge tools that reflect a forward-thinking, high-tech research approach.

  4. International Research Background
    His training and professional experience in both the U.S. (at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center) and China make him a bridge between Western and Eastern biomedical research ecosystems.

  5. Leadership and Mentorship
    Serving as both Principal Investigator and Ph.D. Supervisor, and having been Vice Director at a major clinical research center, Dr. Wang shows strong leadership and a commitment to research training.

  6. Recognitions and Awards
    Prestigious honors such as the Shanghai Leading Overseas Talent, Shanghai Pujiang Talent, and MSK Society Scholar Award (twice) underline peer recognition and scientific excellence.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Clinical Translation and Implementation
    While his preclinical work is strong, more details or evidence on how these findings have progressed toward clinical trials or therapeutic products could further strengthen his translational profile.

  2. Interdisciplinary Collaborations
    Expanding collaborations across fields like bioengineering, immunotherapy, or computational biology may add further value and broaden research impact.

  3. Visibility and Outreach
    Increasing visibility through keynote lectures, patents, or public datasets could enhance his reputation globally and support broader dissemination of his work.

  4. Grants and Funding Portfolio
    While not detailed in the CV, highlighting national/international grant leadership or participation would provide insight into his ability to secure and manage competitive research funding.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Yuxiang Wang holds a distinguished academic background across leading institutions. He completed his Ph.D. in Developmental and Molecular Biology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2008–2014), under Dr. Jeffrey W. Pollard, focusing on hormone signaling and uterine biology. Before that, he earned a Master of Sciences from Fudan University (2004–2007), mentored by Dr. Bo Chen, where he explored hormone interactions in reproductive biology. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Sciences from the Ocean University of China (2000–2004), majoring in life sciences. This robust education laid the foundation for his later success in cancer biology and translational research. Throughout his academic path, Dr. Wang has demonstrated a consistent focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases, especially cancer and genetic disorders. His education, blending rigorous laboratory work and clinical relevance, has uniquely positioned him for cutting-edge biomedical research.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Wang currently serves as Principal Investigator and Ph.D. Supervisor at Fudan University’s School of Basic Medical Sciences (2020–present), where he leads research on gliomas and muscular dystrophy. From 2021 to 2023, he also held the position of Vice Director of the Research Department at the Clinical Research Center of the Affiliated Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, coordinating clinical and translational projects. Prior to his return to China, Dr. Wang worked as a Research Fellow at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (2015–2020), collaborating with Dr. Timothy Chan and Dr. Jason Huse on the molecular basis of brain tumors and treatment resistance. His career bridges fundamental science and clinical applications, with a focus on leveraging genetic models and CRISPR technologies to uncover therapeutic targets. Dr. Wang’s international experience and leadership in high-impact research programs underscore his contributions to biomedical innovation and mentorship.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Yuxiang Wang’s outstanding scientific contributions have been recognized through several prestigious awards. He was named a Shanghai Leading Overseas Talent (2020) and a Shanghai Pujiang Talent (2020), highlighting his excellence in international scientific exchange and leadership. While at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, he was twice awarded the MSK Society Scholar Award (2018, 2019), which recognizes exceptional postdoctoral researchers demonstrating strong potential for independent academic careers. These accolades underscore Dr. Wang’s commitment to impactful research, innovation in therapeutic development, and mentorship of young scientists. His ability to translate fundamental research into preclinical and potentially clinical solutions sets him apart as a research leader. These honors reflect peer recognition of both the depth and translational potential of his work in oncology and genetic diseases.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Wang’s research centers on two critical areas: malignant gliomas and muscular dystrophy. In glioma studies, his team investigates the cooperative role of IDH and ATRX mutations using CRISPR-based genetic screening in mouse models to identify synthetic lethal targets—genes whose inhibition can selectively kill tumor cells with specific mutations. This strategy opens doors to novel, mutation-specific therapies with minimal harm to healthy cells. In muscular dystrophy, Dr. Wang focuses on rare genetic mutations affecting glycosylation pathways, utilizing patient-derived cells and animal models to evaluate gene therapy and genome editing solutions. His work seeks not only to understand disease mechanisms but also to bridge the lab-to-clinic gap. A long-term objective is to offer personalized therapies for patients with genetically defined diseases. The integration of molecular biology, translational research, and therapeutic innovation defines his approach.

📚 Publication Top Notes: 

  1. 🧬 Genetically Engineered Mouse Models Unveil Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies for GMPPB-Associated Dystroglycanopathy – Nature Communications (under revision)

  2. 🧠 PRICKLE4 Underlies IDH mutant Tumor Resistance against PARP Inhibition – Advanced Science (under revision)

  3. 🧫 Comprehensively characterizing eRNA in immune cells to screen combinational strategies for anti-cancer immunotherapy – Cancer Research (2025)

  4. 🔬 Targeting therapeutic vulnerabilities with PARP inhibition and radiation in IDH-mutant gliomas and cholangiocarcinomas – Science Advances

  5. 🧬 G-quadruplex DNA drives genomic instability and represents a targetable molecular abnormality in ATRX-deficient malignant glioma – Nature Communications

  6. 🧪 Mutant-IDH1-dependent chromatin state reprogramming, reversibility, and persistence – Nature Genetics

  7. 🧠 Atrx inactivation drives disease-defining phenotypes in glioma cells of origin through global epigenomic remodeling – Nature Communications

  8. 🧬 Activation of protein synthesis in mouse uterine epithelial cells by estradiol-17β is mediated by a PKC–ERK1/2–mTOR signaling pathway – PNAS

  9. 🔬 GSK-3β mediates in the progesterone inhibition of estrogen-induced cyclin D2 nuclear localization and cell proliferation in cyclin D1−/− mouse uterine epithelium – FEBS Letters

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yuxiang Wang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. He demonstrates:

  • A clear and sustained record of scientific excellence,

  • Deep expertise in cancer biology and rare disease genetics,

  • Use of innovative methodologies, and

  • Leadership in both academic and clinical research environments.

His contributions to understanding the molecular basis of gliomas and developing targeted therapies for muscular dystrophy have significant implications for personalized medicine. With continued development in clinical translation and interdisciplinary reach, he stands out as a leader of the next generation of biomedical scientists.

Prity Yadav | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Prity Yadav | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Prity Yadav, UNIVERSITY OF RAJASTHAN, JAIPUR, India

Prity Yadav is a dedicated research scholar at the Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, India. Under the guidance of Prof. P.C. Mali, she is pursuing a PhD focused on nanotechnology and reproductive biomedicine. With a strong academic foundation including an M.Sc. in Zoology and CSIR-NET-JRF qualification, she currently receives the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) from CSIR, Delhi. Her interdisciplinary research combines herbal medicine and nanoscience to develop eco-friendly contraceptive strategies, aiming to revolutionize non-hormonal fertility control. Prity has published 11 research papers in reputed journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, and actively contributes to the scientific community through her work. A member of the Indian Science Congress Association, she is passionate about public health, sustainability, and the responsible use of nanobiotechnology for population control and reproductive health. Her work holds significant promise for advancing global reproductive healthcare through innovative, natural, and non-invasive solutions.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Focused and Impactful Research Area
    Prity Yadav’s interdisciplinary research on nanotechnology and reproductive biomedicine is both relevant and innovative, especially in addressing global concerns like non-hormonal contraception, male fertility regulation, and eco-friendly biomedical alternatives.

  2. Consistent Publication Record
    With 11 publications in reputed SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, her research contributions are well-documented and consistently recognized in the academic community.

  3. Research Innovation
    Her work in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using medicinal plant extracts for antifertility treatments reflects high originality and societal relevance.

  4. Academic Excellence
    She has cleared CSIR-NET-JRF and is currently receiving SRF from CSIR, showing national-level academic competitiveness.

  5. Sustainability and Public Health Focus
    Her projects promote natural, sustainable alternatives to conventional fertility control methods, aligning with public health policy and eco-conscious innovation.

  6. Active Membership in Scientific Community
    Her involvement in organizations such as The Indian Science Congress Association supports her engagement in broader scientific discourse.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Collaborations & Exposure
    Participation in international research collaborations, conferences, or exchange programs would further enrich her global perspective and strengthen her research profile.

  2. Patent Filing and Intellectual Property
    Considering the novelty of her nanoformulations, pursuing patents could enhance the impact and translational value of her work.

  3. Industry Engagement
    Involvement in consultancy or industry-based projects would bridge the gap between lab research and real-world application.

  4. Editorial and Peer Review Roles
    Taking on editorial responsibilities or peer-review contributions would boost her academic service profile.

🎓 Education:

Prity Yadav has a solid academic background in life sciences, specializing in Zoology. She completed her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Zoology with distinction, focusing on reproductive physiology and applied biology. Demonstrating her academic excellence, she cleared the highly competitive CSIR-NET-JRF examination, qualifying for Junior Research Fellowship and later advancing to Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) funded by CSIR, New Delhi. She is currently enrolled in the PhD program at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, under the supervision of Prof. P.C. Mali in the Department of Zoology. Her academic path reflects a consistent focus on animal biology, toxicology, and molecular studies related to fertility and reproduction. Her strong theoretical knowledge, combined with hands-on laboratory training in nanoscience and biomedical research, sets a solid foundation for her innovative research. Prity’s education is a blend of traditional life sciences and modern interdisciplinary tools like nanotechnology and phytomedicine.

🧪 Experience:

Prity Yadav has accumulated significant research experience during her doctoral studies at the University of Rajasthan. With over four years of hands-on laboratory work, she has become proficient in nanoparticle synthesis, in vivo animal experimentation, biochemical analysis, and histopathological techniques. Her research focuses on developing green-synthesized silver nanoparticles using herbal extracts and evaluating their antifertility effects in male rodents. She has co-authored 11 publications in reputable journals and collaborated with fellow researchers on interdisciplinary projects involving herbal pharmacology, nanomedicine, and reproductive biology. While she has no direct industry consultancy experience, her academic research aligns closely with pharmaceutical applications. She frequently presents her findings in national and international conferences and is an active member of the Indian Science Congress Association. Prity’s experience highlights her commitment to scientific rigor, ethical research practices, and a vision for creating sustainable healthcare solutions through biocompatible nanotechnologies.

🔬 Research Focus:

Prity Yadav’s research lies at the intersection of nanotechnology and reproductive biomedicine, with an emphasis on developing herbal-based, non-hormonal antifertility agents. Her work explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using medicinal plant extracts, aiming to enhance bioavailability and targeted delivery of active phytoconstituents. The ultimate goal of her research is to create eco-friendly, reversible male contraceptive methods with minimal side effects. She focuses on evaluating the impact of these nanoparticles on male reproductive systems through in vivo studies using rodent models. Her findings contribute to a deeper understanding of reproductive toxicity, oxidative stress, and fertility regulation mechanisms. This research addresses global challenges such as overpopulation and limited access to safe male contraceptives. Prity’s interdisciplinary approach supports sustainable healthcare by integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern nanoscience, opening new avenues in contraceptive technology and public health policy.

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

  1. 🌿🔬 Herbal Nanoparticles to Control Fertility and Regulation: A Review

  2. 🧫🔥 Testicular Inflammation in Male Reproductive System

  3. 🍃🧪 Assessment of the Antifertility Potential of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Pongamia pinnata Leaf Extract in Male Wistar Rats

  4. 🌱📖 Medicinal Plants Potentials of Fertility Control, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities: A Review

  5. 🧬🌿 Potential Antifertility and Antimicrobial Activities of Plants Used in Traditional Medicines: A Review

  6. 💊🦠 Cassia auriculata-Based Silver Nanoparticles: A Novel Approach to Combat Bacterial Infections

  7. 🌾🧠 A Review on Potential Antioxidant, Neuroprotective and Antidepressant Activities of Herbal Medicinal Plants

  8. ⚗️🧍‍♂️ Effects of Silver Nanoparticles of Putranjiva roxburghii on Reproductive Organs in Male Albino Rats

  9. 🌳🧬 Exploring the Impacts of Tecomella undulata Mediated Silver Nanoparticles on Male Rats Fertility and Reproductive Health

  10. 🍀🧫 An In Vitro Antioxidant Potential Analysis of Herbal Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Methanolic Leaf Extract of Cassia siamea

🧾 Conclusion:

Based on her scientific contributions, innovative research, and academic merit, Prity Yadav is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work presents a unique and impactful solution to pressing challenges in public health and reproductive medicine. With scope for further growth in collaborative and translational domains, she stands out as a rising researcher making meaningful advances in her field.

yu chen | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. yu chen | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. yu chen , Chengdu University of Technology , China

Prof. Yu Chen is a leading researcher in the field of perovskite solar cells, with a particular emphasis on interfacial engineering and charge transport materials. He is currently a Principal Investigator at the Chengdu University of Technology, College of Materials and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering. His academic journey spans top institutions in China, culminating in a Ph.D. from Nanjing University of Science and Technology under the guidance of Prof. Shenli Zhang and Prof. Wenhua Zhang. Prof. Chen has co-authored numerous high-impact journal articles, including in Nature Communications, Advanced Materials, and Chemical Engineering Journal, significantly contributing to the field of renewable energy. His innovative approaches to improving stability and efficiency in perovskite photovoltaics have earned him national recognition. Prof. Chen’s work blends academic rigor with practical innovation, aiming to push the boundaries of solar cell technologies toward commercial viability and sustainability.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • High-impact Publications: Prof. Chen has published extensively in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Advanced Materials, Angewandte Chemie, and Advanced Functional Materials, indicating global recognition and scientific rigor.

  • Cutting-edge Research Focus: His work on perovskite solar cells, especially on buried interface engineering, inorganic transport layers, and molecular self-assembly, addresses fundamental and applied challenges in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

  • Innovation & Application: Techniques like guanylation reaction for MACl removal and ion compensation strategies demonstrate a deep understanding of material-device interplay and have direct implications for industrial application.

  • Leadership & Funding: As a Principal Investigator at Chengdu University of Technology, leading national-level projects (e.g., Qomolangma Talent Program), Prof. Chen has proven both scientific leadership and funding competitiveness.

  • International Collaboration: His co-authorship with global leaders such as Prof. Shengzhong Liu and Prof. Wenhua Zhang strengthens his international research presence.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  • Broader Research Diversification: While his specialization in perovskites is a clear strength, expanding into hybrid systems (e.g., tandem solar cells with silicon or organic-inorganic integration) could elevate his interdisciplinary impact.

  • Industry Partnership: Greater collaboration with industrial partners or startups could accelerate the commercial translation of his innovations.

  • International Fellowships or Visiting Positions: Engaging in international academic exchanges or fellowships (e.g., Marie Curie, Humboldt) could further enhance global visibility.

🎓 Education:

Prof. Yu Chen completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science from Nanjing University of Science and Technology (2019–2023) under the supervision of Prof. Shenli Zhang and Prof. Wenhua Zhang. During this period, he focused on advanced interfacial design and ion migration in perovskite solar cells. He earned his M.Eng. in Chemical Engineering from Changzhou University (2016–2019), mentored by Prof. Ningyi Yuan and Prof. Wenhua Zhang, where he laid the foundation for his research on inorganic materials. His academic journey began with a B.Eng. in Materials Science from Pujiang University (2012–2016), under the supervision of Prof. Jian Huang. This strong and progressive academic background empowered Prof. Chen with a multi-scale understanding of materials synthesis, structural engineering, and device-level optimization — skills now central to his research on high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies.

💼 Experience:

Since 2023, Prof. Yu Chen has been serving as a Principal Investigator at Chengdu University of Technology’s College of Materials and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering. He leads a research group focused on developing next-generation perovskite solar cells, emphasizing stable, efficient, and scalable photovoltaic systems. Prof. Chen has developed several novel techniques involving inorganic hole/electron transport layers and interfacial dipole engineering. His experience spans fundamental research, technology translation, and academic collaboration with prestigious researchers such as Prof. Shengzhong Liu and Prof. Yihui Wu. He is also the recipient and presiding investigator of projects like the “Qomolangma Talent Introduction Program” and the Youth Foundation of Sichuan Natural Science Foundation. His role combines leadership, mentorship, and high-level experimental research, making him an influential figure in China’s renewable energy academic landscape.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Prof. Yu Chen has received several prestigious accolades for his outstanding contributions to solar cell research. In 2019, he was honored with the “Excellent Wall Poster Award” at the China Material Conference, recognizing his innovative visualization of research. In 2023, he earned the title of “Outstanding Graduate” from the China Academy of Engineering Physics, showcasing both his academic excellence and research impact. As the Principal Investigator of prominent research programs such as the Qomolangma Talent Introduction Program, he has demonstrated leadership and vision. His work has been continuously supported by competitive grants, including the Youth Foundation of the Sichuan Natural Science Foundation. These honors reflect not only Prof. Chen’s personal achievements but also his potential to lead transformative advancements in solar energy technologies, particularly in high-efficiency, stable, and scalable perovskite solar cells.

🔬 Research Focus:

Prof. Yu Chen’s research focuses on the design and development of highly efficient and stable perovskite solar cells, with specific expertise in buried interface engineering, inorganic charge transport materials, and defect passivation strategies. His work emphasizes inverted perovskite solar architectures, which promise better long-term stability and commercial adaptability. A key aspect of his research is understanding how molecular self-assembly and interfacial dipole regulation can enhance charge extraction and minimize recombination losses. He has developed novel methods to remove residuals, such as MACl, and form stable 2D perovskite structures in situ, improving device performance. By integrating materials chemistry, device physics, and advanced fabrication, Prof. Chen addresses critical bottlenecks in the field. His research not only advances academic understanding but also aligns with industrial needs for reliable and sustainable photovoltaic technologies.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 Enlarging moment and regulating orientation of buried interfacial dipole for efficient inverted perovskite solar cellsNature Communications, 2025

  2. ⚗️ High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Guanylation Reaction for Removing MACl ResidualAngewandte Chemie Int. Ed., 2025

  3. 🧬 Tailoring Buried Interface and Minimizing Energy Loss by Aluminum Glycinate MoleculesAdvanced Materials, 2025

  4. 🧫 A regulation strategy of self-assembly molecules for achieving efficient inverted perovskite solar cellsPCCP, 2024

  5. 🧠 A Comprehensive Review of Organic Hole‐Transporting Materials for Inverted Perovskite Solar CellsAdvanced Functional Materials, 2024

  6. 🔍 Elimination of Buried Interface Defects for Efficient Wide-Bandgap Perovskite Solar CellsChinese Journal of Chemical Physics, 2023

  7. 🧱 Research Progress of Inorganic Hole Transport Materials in Perovskite Solar CellsJournal of Inorganic Materials, 2023

  8. 🔋 Ion Compensation of Buried Interface Enables Efficient MA‐Free Perovskite Solar CellsAdvanced Functional Materials, 2022

  9. 💊 Defect mitigation using d-penicillamine for stable MA-free perovskite solar cellsChemical Science, 2021

  10. ⚙️ Reducing carrier transport barrier in anode interface enables stable inverted mesoscopic perovskite solar cellsChemical Engineering Journal, 2021

🔚 Conclusion:

Prof. Yu Chen stands out as a highly promising and already accomplished materials scientist. His strong academic record, innovative research on energy materials, leadership in national research programs, and consistent output in prestigious journals make him exceptionally qualified for the Best Researcher Award. While early in his career, his trajectory shows the hallmark of a future leader in clean energy research. With minor expansions in scope and outreach, Prof. Chen is poised to become a central figure in advancing sustainable photovoltaic technologies.

Xingting Guo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Xingting Guo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Xingting Guo , Peking University Third Hospital , China

Dr. Xingting Guo is a dedicated postdoctoral fellow at the National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS), Beijing, where she has been working since 2018. With a strong academic foundation in biochemistry and molecular biology, her research delves into stem cell biology, cellular differentiation, and tumorigenesis using Drosophila and mouse models. Her expertise lies in integrating genetics, biochemistry, single-cell sequencing, and bioinformatics to unravel mechanisms of cell fate specification and intestinal homeostasis. Dr. Guo has co-authored several high-impact publications and has presented her research at both national and international conferences. Her contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of enteroendocrine cells (EECs), tissue identity, and inter-organ communication. Passionate and detail-oriented, she is actively contributing to biomedical sciences with a vision to translate fundamental biology into therapeutic insights. Her work is paving the way for novel treatments for metabolic diseases and cancers.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Innovative Research Focus: Dr. Guo has made pioneering contributions in stem cell biology, particularly in understanding cell fate specification, enteroendocrine diversity, and tumor suppression using Drosophila and murine models.

  2. Multidisciplinary Skillset: She integrates genetics, high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics, organoid culture, and in vivo models, showcasing deep technical expertise.

  3. High-Impact Publications: Co-first author in multiple peer-reviewed journals, including Cell Reports, Nature Communications, and FEBS Journal.

  4. Leadership in Research: From graduate researcher to postdoctoral fellow, she has led multiple independent projects, contributing novel findings to developmental and regenerative biology.

  5. International Recognition: Regular presenter at top-tier conferences globally, including the European Drosophila Research Conference and Annual Drosophila Research Conference (USA).

  6. Research Funding: Successfully secured National Natural Science Foundation of China funding, reflecting scientific merit and recognition.

🔍 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Collaboration: Expanding collaborations outside her current institute or internationally may enhance the translational reach and impact of her research.

  2. Mentorship Roles: While her research is strong, formal mentorship roles (e.g., supervising Ph.D. students) or teaching contributions could further demonstrate leadership.

  3. Clinical Translation: Though her mouse model work touches on therapeutic discovery, publishing more translational or clinical-facing studies could boost her impact in applied biomedical research.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Xingting Guo earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the College of Life Sciences at Beijing Normal University (2012–2018), where she began her in-depth research on stem cell biology and tissue differentiation in Drosophila. Prior to this, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Engineering at Nanjing Agricultural University (2008–2012), where she was honored with multiple scholarships for academic excellence. Throughout her education, she developed a robust foundation in molecular biology, genetics, and developmental biology, equipping her with the skills to tackle complex biological questions. Her academic journey has been characterized by continuous academic excellence, curiosity-driven research, and a commitment to uncovering the molecular mechanisms of health and disease. Her education laid the groundwork for her successful transition to cutting-edge postdoctoral research in developmental biology and regenerative medicine.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Guo began her research career at NIBS Beijing as a graduate student in 2012, transitioning into a postdoctoral fellow in 2018 under the mentorship of Dr. Rongwen Xi. Her research primarily uses Drosophila intestinal systems and murine models to explore the regulation of cellular identity, differentiation, and plasticity. She has led multiple projects on tumor suppression, transcriptional regulation, and enteroendocrine diversity using advanced techniques like genetic manipulation, single-cell RNA sequencing, and organoid cultures. Additionally, she contributes to translational research by identifying drug targets for diabetes-related therapy by reprogramming intestinal cells into insulin-producing β-cells. Her interdisciplinary approach and long-standing expertise in stem cell biology highlight her versatility and innovation in research. Her consistent progression from graduate student to independent researcher reflects her strong scientific rigor and leadership in high-impact studies.

🏆 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Xingting Guo has been recognized for her academic excellence and scientific contributions through numerous honors. During her Ph.D., she was awarded the First Class Academic Scholarship for two consecutive years (2014–2016). As an undergraduate, she earned the prestigious Cyrus Tang Scholarship four times, along with the First Class Scholarship at Nanjing Agricultural University. In recent years, she has taken on the role of a peer reviewer for Bio-protocols, highlighting her engagement with the scientific community. Dr. Guo’s research excellence has led her to represent her work at top-tier conferences, including the Annual Drosophila Research Conference (USA) and the European Drosophila Research Conference (Switzerland). Her contributions were also supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 3210050518), demonstrating her ability to secure competitive funding. These accolades mark her as a rising star in molecular and developmental biology.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Guo’s research focuses on the molecular regulation of stem cell differentiation, cellular identity maintenance, and neuroendocrine cell plasticity using Drosophila and mouse models. She investigates how transcription factors such as ttk69 influence enteroendocrine (EEC) specification, tissue homeostasis, and tumor suppression. Using cutting-edge tools like CRISPR, single-cell transcriptomics, and in vivo lineage tracing, she deciphers how intestinal stem cells differentiate into diverse terminal cell types. Her recent work explores how intestinal EECs regulate systemic physiology via neuropeptides in response to environmental cues like starvation and mating. In parallel, she studies cell-fate reprogramming in mammals to identify potential therapeutic strategies for diabetes by inducing insulin-producing cells in the gut. By bridging basic biology with translational goals, her work contributes to regenerative medicine, oncology, and metabolic disease research.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  • 🧠 Cell-fate conversion of intestinal cells in adult Drosophila midgut by depleting a single transcription factor, Nature Communications, 2024

  • 🔍 The Specification and Function of Enteroendocrine Cells in Drosophila and Mammals: A Comparative Review, FEBS Journal, 2021

  • 🧬 A Switch in Tissue Stem Cell Identity Causes Neuroendocrine Tumors in Drosophila Gut, Cell Reports, 2020

  • 🧫 The Cellular Diversity and Transcription Factor Code of Drosophila Enteroendocrine Cells, Cell Reports, 2019

  • 🧬 Division of Labor: Roles of Groucho and CtBP in Notch-Mediated Lateral Inhibition, Stem Cell Reports, 2019

  • 📘 Signaling Pathways Regulating Stem Cells, Book Chapter, Springer, 2015

  • 🛑 Ttk69 acts as a master repressor of enteroendocrine cell specification, Development, 2015

  • 🧪 EGFR and Notch signaling regulate gastric stem cells, Cell Research, 2014

  • 🧠 Sox9 Ortholog Regulates Intestinal Homeostasis and Regeneration in Drosophila, Cell Reports, 2020

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Xingting Guo is a highly qualified and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her exceptional track record in stem cell biology, cellular reprogramming, and disease modeling makes her a rising star in the life sciences. With a unique combination of technical excellence, scientific innovation, and publication strength, she has already made a significant impact on our understanding of intestinal cell biology and endocrine regulation. Addressing a few career development aspects—like expanding collaborative networks and clinical translation—will make her an even more formidable leader in the field. Given her achievements, potential, and contributions, she is strongly recommended for this prestigious honor.

Raphaël Rodriguez | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Raphaël Rodriguez | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Raphaël Rodriguez , CNRS, Institut Curie, France

Raphaël Rodriguez, born October 27, 1978, in Avignon, France, is a pioneering chemical biologist and Research Director at CNRS, Principal Investigator at Institut Curie, and holder of the Skłodowska-Curie Chair of Chemical Biology. A French citizen with two children, Lucía del Mar and Aramis, Rodriguez is renowned for bridging chemistry and biology to unlock the molecular secrets of cancer and inflammation. Trained in the UK under legendary scientists Sir J. E. Baldwin, Sir S. Balasubramanian, and Sir S. P. Jackson, he returned to France to launch groundbreaking research on ferroptosis and metal regulation in cell adaptation. His entrepreneurial and academic excellence earned him numerous accolades, including the National Order of Merit. With more than 130 publications and several successful biotech ventures, Rodriguez continues to shape the future of medical science with bioactive molecules like Ironomycin and Pyridostatin. He is an editorial board member, reviewer, teacher, and a public voice on science.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Scientific Impact:
    Dr. Rodriguez has contributed over 130 high-impact publications in top-tier journals like Nature, Science, JACS, Nature Chemistry, and Cell Metabolism. His work has helped define ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death, and metal regulation in cancer—a game-changing area in molecular medicine.

  2. Innovation & Translation:
    He discovered and commercialized small molecules such as Pyridostatin, Ironomycin, and Supformin, directly impacting both science and therapeutics. His work bridges fundamental science and drug discovery.

  3. Leadership & Mentorship:
    From mentoring under renowned scientists to leading his own lab at Institut Curie, he has shaped France’s next generation of researchers in chemical biology.

  4. Recognition & Awards:
    His extensive list of prestigious awards, including the CNRS Silver Medal, Liliane Bettencourt Prize, and Knight of the National Order of Merit, reflect peer recognition on national and international levels.

  5. Entrepreneurship:
    As a co-founder of biotech companies (e.g., Adrestia Therapeutics, later acquired), he has demonstrated a rare capacity to translate discoveries into clinical and commercial value.

  6. Scientific Influence:
    Editorial board memberships and frequent invitations to over 160 major conferences show his reputation as a global thought leader in his field.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Public Engagement Scaling:
    Although Dr. Rodriguez is active in media (radio, TV, print), expanding international science outreach (e.g., global science festivals, public lectures, social media presence) could help further democratize his scientific message.

  2. Clinical Translation:
    While several molecules from his lab are commercialized, more direct clinical trials or FDA approvals tied to his molecules would elevate his impact from bench to bedside.

  3. Collaborative Diversity:
    Encouraging more global South collaborations or mentorships could help broaden his lab’s international footprint and contribute to equitable science capacity building.

🎓 Education:

Raphaël Rodriguez’s academic journey is marked by elite training and impactful credentials across Europe. He earned his PhD in Chemistry (2002–2005) through a joint program between Marseille and Oxford. He then pursued postdoctoral research as a Senior Research Associate at Cambridge’s Department of Chemistry and Gurdon Institute (2005–2012), where he developed skills at the interface of chemistry and biology. In 2012, he obtained the prestigious Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches from the University of Paris-Saclay, enabling him to supervise PhD candidates and lead independent research. His rise through the academic ranks was rapid: he became a CNRS Group Leader in 2012, then Principal Investigator at Institut Curie in 2015. In 2017, he was promoted to Research Director (DR1) at CNRS. In 2020, he was awarded the Skłodowska-Curie Chair of Chemical Biology at Institut Curie. His interdisciplinary training under world-renowned mentors has uniquely positioned him at the forefront of chemical biology research.

💼 Experience:

Raphaël Rodriguez’s professional experience is a blend of high-level research, leadership, and innovation. He began his postdoctoral career at the University of Cambridge (2005–2012), working in the Department of Chemistry and the Gurdon Institute. In 2012, he became a CNRS Group Leader at ICSN, Gif-sur-Yvette, launching his independent research career. In 2015, he transitioned to Institut Curie as a Principal Investigator, where he deepened his focus on cancer and inflammation. His promotion to Research Director (DR1) at CNRS in 2017 reflects his impact and leadership. Awarded the Skłodowska-Curie Chair of Chemical Biology in 2020, Rodriguez oversees a productive lab that investigates ferroptosis, DNA structure, and metal ion regulation in disease. He is also an entrepreneur, co-founding Adrestia Therapeutics and OrbiThera. He teaches at PSL University, organizes international conferences, and contributes to editorial boards and scientific advisory boards worldwide, maintaining a strong presence in both academia and biotech.

🏆 Awards and Honors:

Raphaël Rodriguez has received an impressive array of honors, showcasing his impact on science and innovation. In 2024 alone, he won the CNRS Silver Medal and the Ligue Contre le Cancer Duquesne Prize. His earlier recognition includes the prestigious Liliane Bettencourt Prize for Life Sciences (2023), the Knight of the National Order of Merit (2022, presented by Nobel Laureate Jean-Marie Lehn), and the Klaus Grohe Prize (2022). He has also been awarded the Antoine Lacassagne Prize (Collège de France, 2019), the Sunrise Cancer Stem Cell Award (2019), the Charles Defforey–Institut de France Prize (2019), and the Tetrahedron Young Investigator Award (2019). Rodriguez is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2018) and won the Pierre Fabre Award for Therapeutic Innovation (2015). These accolades affirm his contributions across cancer research, chemical biology, and molecular therapeutics, as well as his success in translating science into societal benefit through entrepreneurship.

🔍 Research Focus:

Raphaël Rodriguez’s research lies at the cutting edge of chemical biology, with a focus on understanding how cells adapt to stress, particularly in the contexts of cancer and inflammation. His laboratory explores the role of metal ions—especially iron—as regulators of cellular plasticity and fate. Notably, his team discovered mechanisms underlying ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death linked to iron metabolism, and how this can be exploited for anti-cancer therapies. He also investigates non-canonical DNA structures like G-quadruplexes, using small molecules to study and manipulate gene regulation. His lab has developed and commercialized several potent bioactive compounds, including Pyridostatin, Remodelin, Ironomycin, and Supformin, which are used both as research tools and potential therapeutics. Rodriguez combines molecular design, cell biology, and translational strategies, making his work a blueprint for chemical biology-driven precision medicine. He continues to raise significant research funding and actively collaborates across academia and biotech.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Small-molecule–induced DNA damage identifies alternative DNA structures in human genesNature Chemical Biology

  2. ⚙️ Salinomycin kills cancer stem cells by sequestering iron in lysosomesNature Chemistry

  3. 🛡️ A novel small molecule that alters shelterin integrity and triggers a DNA-damage response at telomeresJACS

  4. 🧫 Chemical inhibition of NAT10 corrects defects of laminopathic cellsScience

  5. 🧠 The transcription factor FOXM1 is a cellular target of the natural product thiostreptonNature Chemistry

  6. 🧪 Trisubstituted isoalloxazines as a new class of G-quadruplex binding ligandsJACS

  7. 🔥 PML-regulated mitochondrial metabolism enhances chemosensitivity in human ovarian cancersCell Metabolism

  8. 🔬 A single-molecule platform for investigation of G-quadruplex interactions with small-molecule ligandsNature Chemistry

  9. 🧲 Small-molecule-mediated G-quadruplex isolation from human cellsNature Chemistry

  10. 🧬 CD44 regulates epigenetic plasticity by mediating iron endocytosisNature Chemistry

  11. 🧷 Selective RNA vs DNA G-Quadruplex Targeting by In Situ Click ChemistryAngewandte Chemie

  12. 🧬 G-Quadruplex-Binding Benzo[a]phenoxazines Down-Regulate c-KIT Expression in Gastric Carcinoma CellsJournal of Medicinal Chemistry

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Raphaël Rodriguez exhibits exceptional merit and impact across the entire research ecosystem—fundamental science, innovation, mentorship, and commercialization. His trailblazing work in chemical biology, coupled with a record of scientific leadership and entrepreneurship, makes him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His career reflects a rare blend of depth, vision, and cross-disciplinary innovation. Minor enhancements in global public engagement and clinical integration could further elevate his already stellar profile.